Derelict building to be converted (From Penarth Times)

Derelict building to be converted

PENARTH'S singing sensation Jamie Shaw has stirred up a wave of controversy following the release of his solo album.

But while it seems the Popstar: The Rivals winner is snubbing his fellow band members he says he had no control over the decision to release an album he recorded at the tender age of 13.

The performer from Pencoedtre Village may be famous now but he actually started his singing career when he was just 13 after he signed a deal with Decca Records.

And only two months into Jamie's new found pop stardom with the harmony band One True Voice, his original company is looking set to re-release his first professional album From the Beginning.

A DERELICT Penarth building left crumbling for a decade is to finally be transformed.

Local eyesore the old Belle Vue Council building, which is situated in Albert Road, will soon be converted into flats.

But, planners have promised the faade of the once thriving property will remain in keeping with its character.

This news was welcomed by residents who have lived with the former homeless hostel on their doorsteps for ten years.

Local Doreen Barber, 75, said: "We, as residents, are delighted that something is being done about the building.

"I myself have been to many council meetings to try to get something done about this."

She added: "I received a letter about two weeks ago to confirm that a developer would be using the building to turn it into flats.

"I have campaigned for years because there has been so much trouble with the property.

"It's a disgrace that nothing has been done until now.

She added: "But it is comforting to know that things are changing and the six flats will be for professional people"

Vale councillor Paul Gray also welcomed the news, especially when it was revealed that the developers would donate a piece of the land to Albert Road Primary school.

Cllr Gray, a governor, said: "We are very happy that something will finally be done to the property.

"There has been a problem with vandals who have set fire to the building many times before.

"But there is nothing inside and the property is just a shell."

He added: "There is also the piece of land which will be given to Albert Road School so that they can extend their play area.

"The school has very little room so the extra area will be extremely useful."